The Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAFF) Number 32 Squadron and Air Mission Training School (AMTS) have received a new mission airborne training system (MATS).
The console-based airborne mission system for the KA350 aircraft is set to take navigation training in a new direction, reported RAAF Flight Lieutenant Julia Ravell.
MATS replaces a navigator training system that has been in use since the early 2000s.
It is developed by Jet Aviation in partnership with Sydney-based software company Cirrus and Defence’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group.
The mission system received specialist design and technical input from the Institute of Aviation Medicine.
AMTS Squadron leader C Flight commander Charles Tomlinson said the way ‘navigators used to be trained involved a lot of paper maps and charts’.
Tomlinson said: “MATS is a very different system that allows us to inject training scenarios directly into the on-board console so trainees can fly realistic missions on a high-fidelity system, taking all the aircraft’s technical requirements into account.
“This is a comprehensive and immersive next-generation training system that sets students up for success, whether they go on to specialise in air combat, maritime or air mobility roles.”
The network-based platform is designed to augment training by providing customised options, diverse, dynamic and realistic mission scenarios.
It also offers instant feedback, realistic simulations and scope for detailed post-mission analysis.
Air Force Training Group Air Commodore Commander Gregory Frisina said: “It has taken a year, but it is awesome news that airforce training group now has a functional airborne training system that mirrors ground simulator systems.
“This system could also open the door for engagement with Indo-Pacific partners in accordance with airforce strategy.”
